Things to do in County Cork

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County Cork travel guide

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Top places to visit

1. Blarney Castle

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.

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2. University College Cork

Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.

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3. English Market

Visit Cork’s English Market to encounter the infectious sights, sounds and smells of a centuries-old food market. Discover everything from organic fruits and vegetables to artisanal ice cream, fresh seafood and locally produced cheeses. Try typical Cork fare while watching the bustling market activity from the comfort of a café or restaurant. The English Market dates back to 1788. Today its more than 50 traders form an integral part of Cork’s culinary scene.

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4. Blarney Stone

Embedded into the moss and lichen-speckled battlements of Blarney Castle, in the small village of the same name, kissing the Blarney Stone is no easy feat. This is particularly true for anyone with a fear of heights as kissing the stone involves leaning backwards over the castle walls to reach it with one’s lips. Nevertheless, this has not stopped countless individuals from doing so over the centuries, in their quest for the gift of the gab.

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5. Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park is an expansive rural setting where exotic animals roam and interact with one another. It focuses on conservation and improving the quality of life of the animals with vast spaces and unobtrusive barriers. Bring the kids to this picturesque island zoo to see giraffes, wild cats and primates.

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6. Bantry House

Visit Bantry House for an impressive collection of art, lavish furniture, paintings and tapestries. Many of these treasures were collected from around the world by the second Earl of Bantry. The earl's travels also inspired Bantry House's garden. Italianate in style, the garden features a number of terraces, providing spectacular views of a wisteria-encircled fountain, the sea and Whiddy Island. The garden also features the Hundred Steps, a steep staircase which provides a great view of the house.

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What to do in County Cork

Popular places to visit

Blarney Castle

Walk in the footsteps of ancient kings, wander amid mystical gardens and kiss the venerated Blarney Stone at this centuries-old castle.

University College Cork

Situated by the banks of the River Lee, University College Cork is a gorgeous, ornate gothic structure with a rich reputation for academic excellence.

English Market

Shop for fresh produce from around the world and sample traditional Cork dishes at this historic food market inside a grand Victorian building.

Blarney Stone

While County Cork is not short on medieval history, you will only find one Blarney Stone. Located roughly five miles northwest of Cork, the stone is said to have mythical qualities. Legend has it that the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence to anybody who kisses it.

Cork Opera House

Get tickets for a show at Cork Opera House, a popular theatre in Cork. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.

Inchydoney Island Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Inchydoney Island Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Inchydoney. Visit the spas in this relaxing area or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Fota Wildlife Park

Watch cheetahs running at full speed for their lunch and feed penguins and lemurs in this large nature reserve on an island.

Bantry House

This privately owned 18th-century estate looks out over Bantry Bay. Stay for the afternoon or splurge and spend the night.

St. Patrick's Bridge

Take in views of the River Lee from this 18th-century bridge and wander through Cork’s city center via one of the city’s most historic streets.

Areas of County Cork

Cork City Centre

4/5(22 area reviews)

Cork is officially Ireland's second city, but it is affectionately known by locals as the 'real capital of Ireland'. It is a city made for discovering on foot, thanks to the River Lee which flows around its centre, creating a compact island that is jam-packed with grand Georgian streets, intersected by medieval alleys and modern architectural triumphs such as the opera house.

South Parish

If you're spending some time in South Parish, Cork City Hall and Elizabeth Fort are top sights worth seeing.

Beautiful night scene Cork Ireland Patrick's Hill panorama Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral

Victorian Quarter

4/5(34 area reviews)

Victorian Quarter is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Everyman Palace Theatre and Leisureplex while you're in town.

Blackrock

You'll enjoy the restaurants and parks in Blackrock. You might want to make time for a stop at Blackrock Castle or Mahon Point Shopping Centre.

Shandon

4/5(10 area reviews)

Shandon is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Bells of Shandon or Murphy's Brewery.

Wilton

When in Wilton, you can plan a visit to Musgrave Park and Cork County Hall, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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